Imagine a dusty village gas station outside Delhi, where strangers from different corners of the world converge, united by a thirst for adventure. Vintage Rides, a New Delhi-based company specializing in motorcycle tours, has brought them together for an unforgettable journey through India’s regal Rajasthan.
Beyond the Beaten Track: While India’s bustling traffic might appear daunting, two-wheeled travel unlocks a hidden world. Motorcycles navigate backroads, traverse dusty trails, and pause at will, revealing a kaleidoscope of landscapes, markets, towns, and architecture bursting with vibrant color and raw energy.
“For me, travel ignites when unexpected encounters unfold,” Alexandre Zurcher, director of Vintage Rides, told CNN Travel. “We steer riders off the tourist trail, deep into villages where encountering foreigners is a rarity. The surprises that await are endless.”
Fuelled by Passion: Zurcher’s love affair with motorbikes began at 19 during a student exchange in Delhi. “Riding across India, from Kanyakumari in the south to the north, remains etched in my memory,” he reminisces. “Motorcycling opened doors to authentic connections with the locals.”
Inspired by his personal journeys, Zurcher launched Vintage Rides in 2006. Today, the company boasts 10 destinations, spanning India, Laos, Bhutan, Thailand, Nepal, Mongolia, Sri Lanka, South Africa, and Peru.
A Royal Enfield Odyssey: A fervent admirer of vintage bikes, Zurcher chose the trusty Royal Enfield as the steed of choice for Vintage Rides’ group tours. “These bikes let you savor the scenery, meet people, and stop for genuine interactions – the essence of Enfield travel,” he explains.
Beyond their undeniable coolness, Royal Enfields hold deep cultural significance in India. Produced in the country for decades, they were once a symbol of British colonial rule. “After independence, Enfield India began production in the late 50s,” says Zurcher. “This bike resonates deeply with the Indian people.”
Rajasthan Unbound: Vintage Rides curates a diverse range of motorcycle itineraries across India. From a 10-day Himalayan escapade to a “Routes of Hinduism” trip encompassing ancient temples, palaces, and national parks, the options are endless.
One of the most popular routes is the 13-day “New Land of Maharajas” ride from Delhi to Varanasi, with stops in Pushkar, Jodhpur, the Taj Mahal, and the holy city of Varanasi. Riders encounter camels in the desert, delve into charming villages, and spend nights in traditional havelis – ornate mansions built by wealthy merchants between the 17th and 19th centuries.
While a daily schedule exists, the true beauty lies in the element of surprise. As CNN Travel discovered on a recent trip, a detour into a vibrant village “mela” (festival) can become an unforgettable highlight.
“This is the real India,” exclaimed Steve Maskell, a tour participant. “We met genuine people, even joining an impromptu dance and karaoke session. It was magical!”
Maskell, a seasoned motorcyclist, highlights the unparalleled freedom bikes offer. “It’s about the liberty to go anywhere, feel the fresh air, and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells. That’s the magic of riding – experiencing everything firsthand.”
So, if you seek an adventure that transcends guidebooks and tourist traps, consider embarking on a Vintage Rides motorcycle journey. Let the roar of the Royal Enfield be your soundtrack as you discover the soul of India, one dusty trail at a time.
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